The Saudi Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) has announced that it would broadcast 220 programs on its nine television channels and five radio stations during Ramadan.

Abdul Rahman Al-Hazza, the SBC president, said here on Sunday that Saudi television has the second-highest number of viewers in the Kingdom. He said that the new Ramadan programs have been designed to suit the tastes of local viewers.

Al-Hazza said there has been a 20 percent rise in advertising on Saudi channels over the last two years during Ramadan. “This shows the popularity of the channels among local viewers.” He said international programs such as Master Chef and The Cube have attracted many local viewers.

Abdullah Al-Humoud, the SBC vice president, said the organization would have 70 programs on Saudi television during the holy month including comedies and shows for children. There would also be sports, religious, cultural and social programs. “We made many changes in our programming in terms of content and style to attract more viewers,” he said.The Ramadan programs will also host several panel discussions on the significance of fasting.